Of this group, 59% say more work needs to be done to connect young people with local businesses and apprenticeship providers, while nearly a quarter (24%) said that this lack of information means those that already know people in certain industries and businesses have an advantage.

The Young Minds survey of just over 1,000 young people across the UK was commissioned by accounting and advisory firm BDO to provide an indicative snapshot of the career aspirations and challenges of young people, canvassing the views of those between the ages of 18-25 years old.

The survey found that more than a third (38%) of young people polled in Scotland still believe that attending university will provide more career choices, yet more than two-fifths (44%) would also consider undertaking an apprenticeship after their degree to upskill, achieve a master’s degree-level qualification or to train in a specialist area or profession.

Martin Gill, regional managing partner at BDO LLP in Scotland, said: “Apprenticeships play a vital role in building an inclusive and highly skilled workforce of tomorrow, yet many young people in Scotland feel they are still being denied access. This consistent lack of information and education is creating a bottleneck in new talent.

“Greater connectivity between government, businesses and the education system is needed to allow young people to make more informed decisions and to help match them with employers offering apprenticeship opportunities.

“We need to work together to ensure everyone has access to the information, training and high-quality employment they need to reach their potential.”

BDO has around 1,000 apprentices and offers various routes into the profession, including a four-year school leaver apprenticeship, insight programmes specifically aimed at those from lower socio-economic backgrounds and summer internships – all geared towards developing professional skills and creating rewarding careers.

The firm is also is a founding and active member of Access Accountancy, a charitable body with a core purpose built around diversity and inclusion and the challenges those from lower socio-economic backgrounds face in accessing the profession.